King Gunther’s nearest kinsmen with welcoming hands drew nigh,
And to Rüdiger did Ortwein, fair Metz’s warder, cry:
“No guests so passing welcome to our hearts for many a day
Have we looked upon in Rhineland: sheer truth is that I say.”
Then one and all for his greeting they thanked that princely thane;
And into the Hall of the Presence paced Rüdiger and his train.
There they beheld King Gunther begirt with barons bold;
And he rose from his throne to greet them, like a great king courteous-souled.
With welcome how royal-courteous those heralds did he meet!
How eagerly did Gunther and Gernot his brother greet